NerdWallet offers cost‑saving advice for home renovation projects

Google Trends data showed that searches for “home renovation” and “home improvement” hit their highest levels in June. NerdWallet’s analysis of the American Housing Survey found the average cost of a home‑improvement project to be about $6,200.

NerdWallet editorial staff shared personal projects and tips. Senior writer Sara Rathner is finishing a basement in Richmond, Virginia, and warns that estimates can be misleading – she suggests adding roughly $10,000 to any projected cost and scrutinising line‑item details. Content head Jeanette Margle renovated an attic‑and‑patio space into a bedroom in the Houston suburbs, comparing multiple contractor quotes, doing some DIY painting, and financing smaller items with a zero‑interest credit‑card offer. Both noted that even modest renovations can disrupt household routines.

The article highlights practical strategies for budgeting, contractor selection and financing to help homeowners avoid costly mistakes.